How much horsepower does a 1981 Corvette 350 have?
The 1981 Corvette’s 350-cubic-inch V8 produced 190 horsepower (SAE net).
That year’s 5.7-liter small-block used cross-fire injection and was tuned to balance performance with emissions controls. The official rating of 190 hp reflects the SAE net standard of the era, which factors in production accessories and exhaust as installed on a stock car.
Engine details and horsepower context
Below are the core specifications that defined the 350-cubic-inch V8 powering the 1981 Corvette, along with its horsepower rating.
Here are the key specifications for the 350-cubic-inch V8 in the 1981 Corvette:
- Displacement: 5.7 liters (350 cubic inches)
- Configuration: V8
- Induction: Cross-Fire Fuel Injection (CFI)
- Horsepower: 190 hp (SAE net)
- Torque: approximately 280 lb-ft
These numbers reflect the era’s technology and the Corvette’s emphasis on a balanced performance profile rather than peak horsepower alone.
Contextual notes
Compared with earlier muscle-era figures, the 1981 Corvette’s 190 hp rating sits within a period focused on improving drivability, fuel economy, and emissions compliance while maintaining respectable V8 performance.
Summary
In summary, the 1981 Corvette with its 350-cubic-inch V8 delivered 190 horsepower (SAE net) and about 280 lb-ft of torque, a performance figure representative of early-1980s American sports cars.
What was the worst year for the C3 Corvette?
1982 Corvette Collector Edition
The C3 Corvette was amidst its death throes during the 1982 model year. In its 15th year of production, it had few fans left and open derision was the norm among enthusiasts. The C3 had overstayed its welcome by at least five years.
How much horsepower does a 1981 C3 Corvette have?
Total 1981 Corvettes Built- 40,606, All Coupes
| Corvette Power Teams | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | ||
| Std. all states | Ordering Code | Net Horsepower |
| 5.7 Liter 4-Bbl. V8 (A) | L81 | 190 @ 4200 RPM |
What is the top speed of a 1981 Corvette?
The top speed of a 1981 Corvette is around 125 mph, although this can vary depending on the specific configuration and condition of the car. This model is powered by a 5.7L5.7 cap L5.7𝐿 V8 engine producing 190190190 horsepower and was available with either a 4-speed manual or 3-speed automatic transmission.
- Top speed: Approximately 125125125 mph.
- Engine: 5.7L5.7 cap L5.7𝐿 (350 cubic inch) V8.
- Horsepower: 190190190 horsepower.
- Transmission: 4-speed manual or 3-speed automatic.
How much is a 1981 Corvette worth today?
A 1981 Corvette's value today varies widely, typically ranging from about $3,000 to $40,000 or more, depending on its condition, mileage, and specific options. A car in average, good condition might be worth around $16,300 to $25,100, while exceptionally well-maintained or rare examples can command much higher prices, with some selling for over $240,000 at auction.
Factors that influence the value
- Condition: The most significant factor. A low-mileage, rust-free, and well-maintained car will be worth much more than one with extensive damage or poor maintenance.
- Mileage: Lower mileage generally equates to higher value.
- Options: Original and desirable factory options can increase the price.
- History: A clean history and ownership record is a plus, while a history of accidents or title issues will decrease the value.
- Maintenance: A history of regular maintenance, especially on the engine and transmission, adds to the car's value.
What different price points indicate
- Low End ($3,000-$7,500): These cars typically have significant issues, such as extensive maintenance needs, accident history, or major cosmetic or mechanical problems.
- Average ($16,300-$25,100): This range represents cars that are in good condition with average mileage and no major issues.
- High End ($40,000+): Prices in this range are for rare, exceptionally well-maintained examples with desirable features or significant upgrades.
- Extremely High ($240,000+): The highest prices are reserved for concours-level, historically significant, or otherwise unique cars with an excellent track record.
